Split-banded Owl-Butterfly
Common NameSplit-banded Owl-Butterfly
Scientific NameCaligo idomeneus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilySatyrinae
Wingspan (mm)110
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, cream
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico to Brazil)
Host PlantsHeliconia, Musa, Calathea, Euterpe, Phoenix
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are large, often green or brown, with a horned head capsule and a forked tail. Pupae are typically camouflaged, resembling leaves or twigs.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its large size, the distinctive large owl-like eyespots on the underside of the wings, and the overall cryptic bark-like pattern. The upper side, when visible, typically shows iridescent blue with a broad yellow band on the forewing.
Description
A large butterfly displaying a highly cryptic underside, predominantly brown and grey with intricate wavy patterns resembling tree bark. It features prominent, large, owl-like eyespots on both the forewings and hindwings.
